Darren Aronofsky is talking to Paramount about directing a George Washington film called The General. Rumor has it the movie will be somewhat reminiscent of Unforgiven, whatever that means. Maybe it’ll focus on his coming out of retirement to assume the presidency.

Several years ago I wondered whether George Washington would make a suitable protagonist for a biopic. His life story offers plenty of excitement and drama, but how can you get audiences to sympathize with such an austere figure?